Talava Arches

Useful Information

Location:	Matapa track, 30 minutes walk over a rough path.
Open:	no restrictions. [2021]
Fee:	free. [2021]
Classification:	Natural Bridge sea cave
Light:	bring torch
Dimension:
Guided tours:	self guided
Photography:	allowed
Accessibility:	no
Bibliography:
Address:
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

Description

The Talava Arches are huge natural arches which are the remains of a very large sea cave. Starting at a grassy parking area the walking track leads first to the Matapa Chasm, a gorge which is favoured for its cool, safe swimming. An underground stream enters here with cool fresh water, but this cave is not accessible.

Close to the parking lot a trail to the Talava Arches branches off. This path is rather rough, and after following the trail from here for about 30 minutes, a small karst cave with nice speleothems is reached. It is lighted by a roof collapse in the middle, then it opens up wide to a long pool of blue water and two close arches and a far one. To reach the arches it is necessary to climb down halfway through the cave. Walking over the reef the far archway may be reached. A small cave with excellent stalactites opposite the arch may be explored during low tide, a torch is needed.

This area offers numerous caves, chasm, crevices, arches and pool. It is really impressive, but also a cool place for swimming and snorkeling. Nevertheless, the exploration of the wild caves and arches requires some fitness and appropriate equipment, e.g. sturdy shoes and a torch. With a litte common sense it is harmless, but a local guide is still recommended.